CANADA
Study Costs
The annual cost of studying in Canada varies depending on the program and institution chosen by international students. This applies to both higher education (college or university) and K-12 education.
K-12 Private Schools: Tuition and boarding fees for international students typically range from 30,000to60,000 per year.
Language Programs: Costs for language courses are based on an average tuition fee for 44 weeks of study. However, fees vary depending on the type of course, the institution, and the duration of study.
Prospective students should research their chosen program and institution to understand the specific costs and plan their finances accordingly.
Accomodation
Residence/Dormitory Accommodation in Canada
Many Canadian post-secondary institutions offer on-campus or nearby dormitory accommodations. These dorms typically feature shared kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry facilities. Some also provide optional cafeteria meal plans, where students pay upfront for two or three meals per day.
For students attending Canada for a single semester, university or college residences are often the simplest option, as they eliminate the hassle of finding private off-campus housing. For those staying longer, renting university accommodation for the first semester can provide time to settle in and explore other housing options for future semesters.
Dormitory living is particularly popular among first- and second-year Canadian students and is also favored by many international students. It offers benefits such as:
Easier opportunities to make friends and study partners.
Convenient access to campus, eliminating the need for transportation.
A smoother social transition into Canadian student life.
On-campus housing is a practical and social choice for students adjusting to life in Canada
Private Accommodation in Canada
For students seeking off-campus housing, a list of available private accommodations near their educational institution can often be found at the housing office or student union office on campus. However, it’s important to note that post-secondary institutions typically do not inspect these listings. Students are responsible for:
Deciding on the type of accommodation they prefer.
Contacting the landlord.
Inspecting the property.
Determining its suitability.
Rental Costs:
Monthly rent for private accommodation can range from 400to1,500, depending on the city, neighborhood, and whether the space is shared with co-tenants.
Damage Deposit:
Landlords usually require a one-month rent deposit upfront as a damage deposit. This amount is refundable when the student moves out, provided the property is left in good condition.
Payment Tips:
Deal directly with the landlord and pay the deposit to them.
Pay rent via cheque for easier proof of payment.
Always request a receipt for payments made.
Private accommodation offers flexibility and independence, but students should carefully evaluate their options and ensure they understand the terms of their rental agreement.
Admission Procedure
Check Application Requirements for Each School
In Canada, education is managed by individual provinces, which means there is no centralized application system like UCAS in the UK or the Common App in the US. When applying to Canadian universities, you typically need to apply to each institution individually.
However, there are exceptions, such as the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC), which allows you to apply to multiple universities in Ontario through a single application. Some other provinces also have similar systems, but in most cases, you’ll need to submit separate applications to each university.
Be sure to review the specific application requirements for each school, as they may vary by institution and program.
Apply Online in No Time
Applying to Canadian universities is quick and convenient, as most applications can be completed entirely online. The process usually takes no longer than an hour, often closer to 30 minutes. Most applications require basic information, such as:
Biographical details
Educational history
Intended program of study and start date
In most cases, supplementary materials like letters of reference, essays, or test scores are not required. However, there are exceptions, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for each university or consult with their admissions agents.
This streamlined process makes applying to Canadian universities efficient and straightforward.
Check Application Deadlines with Each School
Canadian universities generally have later application deadlines compared to other countries. Most applications open in October of your senior high school year, with deadlines ranging from January to June. Additionally, many universities offer multiple start dates to accommodate students from different countries or educational systems.
While the most common start date is September, some institutions also offer intakes in January or even May, providing flexibility for students. Be sure to verify the specific deadlines and start dates for each university you’re interested in, as they can vary significantly.
Check the Type of Application Process Each School Uses
Many Canadian university programs use a “rolling admission” process, where applications are evaluated as soon as they are received, along with transcripts. In some cases, an admission decision can be made in as little as one week after a complete application is submitted.
However, some programs operate on a “competitive admission” basis, meaning they only review applications after the application deadline has passed. It’s important to understand the specific application process for your program of interest to ensure you meet all requirements and deadlines.
Know What Final Requirements You Need to Enroll
Canadian universities often use a “rolling admission” process, where applications are evaluated as soon as they are received, along with transcripts. In some cases, an admission decision can be made in as little as one week after a complete application is submitted. However, some programs follow a “competitive admission” process, meaning they only review applications after the application deadline has passed. Be sure to understand the specific process for your program of interest.
Most Canadian universities issue a “conditional offer of admission”. This means you are admitted to your chosen program (or an alternate program if you don’t meet the requirements for your first choice), but you must meet certain conditions to secure full admission. These conditions typically include:
Maintaining your academic average.
Successfully completing your high school program and graduating.
Carefully review your admission offer letter, as there may be additional conditions that are not immediately obvious.
For international students, a conditional offer can be used to start the study permit application process. All non-Canadian citizens or permanent residents must obtain a valid study permit to pursue programs longer than four months in Canada.
Visa Conditions
Key Requirements for International Students in Canada
Full-Time Enrollment:
You must remain enrolled as a full-time student, attend classes, and maintain passing grades.
If you face academic challenges, notify your international advisor immediately.
Passport Validity:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months into the future. Contact your country’s consulate or embassy for passport renewal if needed.
Work Opportunities:
International students with a valid Study Permit can work on-campus without a work permit.
Off-campus work is also permitted for up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays and semester breaks.
This applies to full-time students enrolled at public universities, community colleges, vocational colleges, publicly funded trade/technical schools, or eligible private institutions.
Check with your university to confirm if off-campus work is allowed, as some institutions may restrict it.
Spouse/Partner Work Rights:
Canada allows you to bring your spouse or partner with you.
Your spouse/partner can also work in Canada while you are studying.
These policies provide flexibility and opportunities for international students to gain work experience and support themselves financially during their studies in Canada.